Robert Lewandowski has rejected Barcelona’s latest contract renewal offer, prompting the Catalan club to search for a new striker with similar qualities to the Polish forward in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Lewandowski’s contract with Barça expires at the end of the current season, and after rejecting the latest offer, it is now certain that he will leave Camp Nou. Joan Laporta’s administration will be forced to look for a new option to fill the void left by the 37-year-old.
Why did Lewandowski refuse to renew his contract with Barcelona?
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the salary offered by Barcelona to Lewandowski was “very low” and was unacceptable to the player.
Lewandowski currently earns around €20 million annually, making him one of the highest-paid players at Camp Nou. Laporta’s administration believes it is necessary to reduce this salary for several reasons, most importantly his age and the current financial situation at the Catalan club.
In principle, Lewandowski is not opposed to a pay cut, but he considers Barcelona’s offer excessive, as it would reduce his salary by more than half, which he feels is inconsistent with his status as one of the world’s top strikers, especially considering his contributions to Barcelona over the past four years.
Lewandowski is headed to either Serie A or MLS.
Meanwhile, Lewandowski’s most likely destinations are either Serie A, remaining in Europe, or a new experience in Major League Soccer.
Lewandowski has an attractive offer from Chicago Fire, and his wife moved to the US months ago to explore life there and how their children can integrate into this new society.
Italian clubs also remain highly interested in the former Bayern Munich star. Juventus is looking to bolster its center-forward position by signing him, while AC Milan prefers free transfers with experienced players, particularly after Luka Modric’s great success at the San Siro.
Barcelona inquires about the possibility of signing Alexander Sørloth
Barcelona dreams of signing Atlético Madrid star Julián Álvarez, but the Rojiblancos’ high demands remain an obstacle to completing the deal. Thus, sporting director Deco has begun exploring other options.
In recent hours, Sørloth’s name has emerged as the ideal replacement for Lewandowski. Deco believes the Norwegian striker possesses similar qualities to Lewandowski, including height, physical strength, and clinical finishing. Furthermore, adapting to Hansi Flick’s system is not expected to be difficult for him.
Considering he is 30 years old and his contract expires in 2028, Sørloth would not cost Barcelona a fortune and could make an immediate impact on the attack.
Contacts have already taken place between Barcelona representatives and the player to explore the possibility of a transfer, and the initial impression is positive, pending Atlético Madrid’s decision on the asking price.
Rafinha apologizes for his gesture towards Atlético Madrid fans
In related news, Barcelona have also inquired about Kosovar striker Vedat Muriqi, the second-highest scorer in La Liga this season with 18 goals for Real Mallorca.
Muriqi possesses the necessary experience in La Liga and has qualities similar to Lewandowski. He has a €40 million release clause, but Mallorca are expected to let him go for a significantly lower fee.
Barça’s management is currently weighing up the two options to focus on one next summer and compensate for Lewandowski’s almost certain departure.
